Piazza della Signoria

Just outside the towering Palazzo Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria offers a free glance into Renaissance Florence. Just by walking through the square, you are surrounded by a whole chapter of Florence's history book. Featuring works by Donatello (or reproductions) and the famous second David, Piazza della Signoria is not much different from the way it was in the past. Make sure you walk to the center of the square where a small plague signifies the burning of Savonarola--the priest who set the Renaissance world literally on fire. Think about having a café at one of the nearby restaurants. It's also easy to get to from any location in the city.